Know Your Height & Weight

Knowing the height and weight of your RV is critical for safe travel, and it's one of the first things every RV owner should familiarize themselves with. Here's why it's important and how to stay aware of it:

Why You Should Know Your RV's Height & Weight

1. Avoid Low Clearances: Some bridges, tunnels, and overpasses have height restrictions that could pose a serious risk to taller RVs. Hitting a low overpass could cause extensive damage to your RV.
2. Road and Bridge Weight Limits: Many roads, bridges, and tunnels have maximum weight limits. Exceeding these limits can lead to fines or even cause structural damage to the roadway and your vehicle.
3. Safe Towing: If you're towing a trailer, knowing the weight of both your RV and the trailer is important to avoid overloading your vehicle, which could affect braking, steering, and overall safety.
4. Fuel Efficiency: Understanding your RV's weight can help you manage fuel consumption better, as heavier loads require more fuel.
5. Campsite Considerations: Some campgrounds or sites have restrictions on the size and weight of vehicles they can accommodate. Knowing your RV's specs ensures you book appropriate sites.

How to Measure Your RV's Height and Weight

• RV Height: Measure from the ground to the tallest point of your RV, which could include air conditioning units, satellite dishes, or antennas. Don't rely on manufacturer specs, as modifications like roof racks or solar panels can change the actual height.
• RV Weight: Weigh your RV at a certified weigh station. Truck stops often have scales, or you can visit a local Department of Transportation (DOT) weigh station. Make sure to weigh it while fully loaded with your gear, water, and fuel.

How to Keep Track of Height and Weight

• Post It in Your Cab: Write down your RV's height and weight, and post it somewhere visible in the driver's area so you always have it in front of you while driving.
• Label in Both Feet and Inches: If you're traveling in the U.S., low clearance warnings are often posted in feet and inches. Always have your RV's height in both units (e.g., 11 feet 6 inches).
• Check Route Restrictions: When planning your route, use RV-friendly apps or GPS systems that alert you to low bridges, narrow roads, and weight-restricted areas.

Avoiding Low Bridges and Weight Restrictions

• Use RV GPS or Apps: Apps like RV LIFE, TruckMap, and CoPilot RV can guide you along routes suitable for your RV's height and weight.
• Know Common Limits: In many areas, overpasses lower than 12 feet are rare but still exist. Always be cautious when entering older towns, rural areas, and scenic routes, as they may have older infrastructure with lower clearances or restricted weight bridges.

Keeping your RV's height and weight in mind at all times ensures safer travels and helps you avoid costly repairs, accidents, or fines.